Three Perfect Days for the Adventuring Family
Three perfect days of family escape.
Planning the perfect family getaway means finding that sweet spot between everyone’s interests, fun activities, and making time to connect. At Steamboat, we believe family vacations should be all about creating cherished memories—without the stress of planning every detail. We know you want a simple, enjoyable experience where everything is taken care of, from dining to activities to accommodation, so you can focus on what matters most.
Below, we’ve put together a three-day itinerary designed to offer something for everyone, blending ease with excitement for an unforgettable family experience. From snow-filled adventures to cozy moments by the fire, this itinerary is crafted with families in mind.
Day 1: Stress-Free Arrival and Easy Beginnings
- Take a load off: Arrive at The Steamboat Grand, unpack, and grab a beverage from The Cabin bar. You’re on vacation now!
- Get your Gear: Depending on what you own – either check your skis and snowboards with the valet or rent. To rent, you can head to Steamboat Sports in the Grand to get fit onsite or reserve a fitting with Ski Butlers who will bring your gear right to your room.
- Get acquainted: Pop into the pool, soak up the serenity of the spa, or get fit in the gym – the Grand is ready with the best amenities.
- Dine in: Don’t worry about your first night out: Dine in at The Cabin to keep it easy and delicious.
- Some of our favorite dishes include the Turkey and Brie on croissant, Vegan and GF Vietnamese Pho, smoked brisket Ruben, and Shrimp & Green Chili Mac & Cheese.
- Drink up: Start consuming more water than you’re used to and head to bed early – you’re in the mountains now!
- Plan it out: Get familiar with the mountain with our Trail Map – and download the Steamboat app to make sure you can find your family, track your vertical feet, and see the grooming map.
Day 2: A Day of Family Fun and Adventure
- Wake up stress free: you have an entire itinerary to guide you through your first day in Ski Town, USA.
- Fuel Up: Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at The Cabin to power up for an exciting day ahead.
- Gear Up: Pick up your tickets at kiosks inside The Grand, in Steamboat Square, or visit the ticket office for assistance. Have your own gear? Grab it from Grand Storage. Renting? Steamboat Sports at The Grand or Creekside Lockers has you covered.
- Hit the Slopes: Take the Wild Blue Gondola to Greenhorn Ranch for your Family Private Experience—a guided session for all skill levels with a pro instructor. Want some solo time? Enroll your kids in Mountain Camp at Greenhorn Ranch, featuring expert instruction and small classes tailored to your young skiers.
- New this season, Steamboat is limiting each class to five kids for more dedicated time with your child.
- You can learn more about our fantastic Snowsports School by watching this video: Learn to Ski and Ride at Greenhorn Ranch, a Terrain-Based Learning Center
- Unwind and Recharge: After a day on the mountain, drop your skis at Grand Storage and head back to The Grand to relax and refresh.
- Get Local: Discover the meaning behind the ‘Steamboat Springs’ name and head downtown to soak in the Old Town Hot Springs.
- Old Town Hot Springs has been a site for recreation and rejuvenation in this community for over 100 years because of the gift of the Heart Spring, the source of all the healing mineral water in our eight pools.
- Evening Adventure: Hop on The Grand shuttle to Haymaker for a magical horse-drawn sleigh ride. Then, enjoy a Colorado-inspired four-course dinner as the sunset paints the Steamboat skies.
- For more fun activities check out 10 Family Activities in Steamboat Springs.
- End Your Day Right: Reflect on your first unforgettable day in Ski Town, USA, and get ready for what’s next!
Day 3: Make the Most of Your Last Full Day
- Start Easy: Grab a fresh breakfast sandwich at The Grand Market or stock up on take-and-bake ingredients to whip up pancakes or eggs in your room for a cozy start to the day.
- Final Runs: Spend your morning carving up Steamboat’s iconic terrain one last time and soak in the views.
- Midday Break: Warm up by the fire with lunch at The Range Food & Drink Hall, where tacos, ramen, pizza, and more offer something for everyone in your group.
- Off-Slope Fun: Rent skates and take a few laps at Skeeter Ice Rink, located just next to The Range, for a fun winter activity that gets everyone involved.
- Bring it Home: Stop by the Grand Goods Gift Shop before heading back to your room and pick up Steamboat apparel, home décor, or unique gifts to remember your trip.
- OR Shop Local: Stroll down Lincoln Avenue and visit some of our amazing local stores – each of them unique in their own way. Lyon’s Drug is an old-fashioned soda fountain and a great place to enjoy a sandwich and milkshake.
- Dine in Style: End your day with a gondola ride up to Thunderhead Lodge for a Western-style barbecue dinner. Share your favorite memories and toast to an unforgettable Steamboat experience.
A family getaway at Steamboat is more than just a vacation—it’s an opportunity to create lifelong memories, deepen your bonds, and experience the magic of the mountains together. With this carefully crafted three-day itinerary, you can savor every moment without the stress of planning, knowing that every detail is taken care of. From thrilling adventures on the slopes to cozy dinners and unique activities, Steamboat offers the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation. Whether you follow this itinerary to the letter or pick just a few suggestions to weave into your trip, our hope is that these ideas help make your family’s Steamboat experience as seamless and memorable as possible.
